Which types of aortic aneurysms exist?

Aortic aneurysm is a phrase that covers more than one thing, and that can confuse a first-time reader. This page sorts out the types, one step at a time.

How many types there are

medlineplus.gov says there are two types of aortic aneurysm. It explains that abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) occur in the part of the aorta that runs through your abdomen (belly).

Keeping the names straight

When you see AAA in an article, it refers to that belly section of the aorta. For the wider topic, the NHLBI, NIH page on aortic aneurysm is the one to read next.

A next step for a beginner

Pick the type that matches your question and read about it first. The Society of Interventional Radiology page on abdominal aortic aneurysm and IR treatment options is a good place to begin if your question is about AAA.